The Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust (MMLT) has permanently protected Aird Creek MapleCross Nature Reserve, an 80-hectare (198-acre) expanse of rugged wilderness in the heart of the Madawaska Highlands.
Defined by towering pines, mature hardwoods and stands of old-growth cedar, the property’s forested ridges are bisected by the meandering Aird Creek and a broad wetland valley. The diverse habitats, old-growth characteristics, and intact forest and wetland ecosystems make it a vital refuge for wildlife.
The reserve supports a rich diversity of life, including black ash (threatened) and eastern wood-pewee (special concern), as well as Blackburnian warbler, yellow lady’s slipper, fen orchid, leatherwood, and moose — species that reflect the property’s exceptional ecological value.
Aird Creek MapleCross Nature Reserve is located near three existing MMLT nature reserves — Rose Hill, Chatson Woods at Rose Hill, and MapleCross Newlands — together forming nearly 465 hectares (1,150 acres) of protected wilderness. This growing cluster of conservation lands enhances habitat connectivity and wildlife corridors across the Highlands, ensuring species can move and thrive in a changing climate.
“Aird Creek MapleCross Nature Reserve captures the essence of the Madawaska Highlands — wild, rugged, and ecologically rich,” says Steve Kotze, President of MMLT. “Protecting this land ensures that its forests, wetlands, and wildlife will continue to thrive for generations to come. This achievement reflects the dedication of our donors, funders, and community who make lasting conservation possible.”
The Aird Creek project was made possible thanks to generous contributions from community donors, and major financial support from the MapleCross Fund, Echo Foundation, the Government of Canada’s Natural Heritage Conservation Program (part of Canada’s Nature Fund), and the Greenlands Conservation Partnership program, an initiative funded by the Government of Ontario and administered by the Ontario Land Trust Alliance. These same funding partners also contributed to the recent protection of the nearby MapleCross Newlands Nature Reserve, further strengthening conservation outcomes in the region.
“Thanks to the leadership of the Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust, the permanent protection of Aird Creek MapleCross Nature Reserve marks a meaningful step forward in conserving species at risk habitat and safeguarding ecologically rich wilderness in Ontario’s Madawaska Highlands,” says the Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of Environment and Climate Change. “The Government of Canada is proud to support projects that protect lands with exceptional biodiversity and climate-regulating benefits for future generations.”
MMLT will undertake baseline species inventories and ongoing stewardship at Aird Creek MapleCross Nature Reserve to guide long-term management. The property also holds potential for low-impact public access, including a modest footpath for nature appreciation and education.
About MMLT
Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust is a charitable land trust dedicated to conserving ecologically significant lands in the Mississippi River and Lower Madawaska River watersheds. MMLT currently protects nearly 4,200 acres of forests, wetlands, and other vital habitats in eastern Ontario, ensuring they remain wild and healthy for future generations. Learn more at mmlt.ca.